Deadline: 19-Jun-2026
The European Commission is inviting proposals under the IPA III Action Programme 2025–2027 to strengthen Montenegro’s Anti-Fraud Coordination Service (AFCOS) system and protect EU financial interests.
This Twinning Light project focuses on improving anti-fraud mechanisms, institutional coordination, and cooperation with OLAF, with a total budget of EUR 250,000.
Programme Overview
This initiative supports Montenegro in strengthening its anti-fraud framework and ensuring effective protection of European Union funds.
The project aims to improve operational capacity, fraud detection systems, reporting mechanisms, and inter-institutional coordination within Montenegro’s AFCOS system. It also aligns national systems with EU regulations and standards.
Key Objectives
Strengthening Anti-Fraud Mechanisms
- Improve tools for detecting and managing fraud and irregularities
- Develop practical procedures for handling suspected fraud cases
- Enhance preventive and corrective measures
Enhancing Institutional Coordination
- Strengthen cooperation between:
- Ministry of Finance (AFCOS coordination body)
- Implementing agencies
- Anti-fraud institutions
- Improve collaboration with OLAF
Improving Reporting and Systems
- Strengthen use of the Irregularity Management System (IMS)
- Ensure timely and accurate reporting of irregularities
- Enhance procedural frameworks and compliance systems
Capacity Building and Awareness
- Train stakeholders responsible for safeguarding EU funds
- Increase awareness of fraud risks and prevention measures
Key Concepts Explained
What is AFCOS?
Anti-Fraud Coordination Service (AFCOS) is a national system that coordinates efforts to:
- Prevent fraud involving EU funds
- Detect and report irregularities
- Cooperate with EU institutions such as OLAF
What is OLAF?
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) investigates fraud, corruption, and misconduct affecting EU financial interests.
What is the Irregularity Management System (IMS)?
IMS is a digital platform used by EU Member States and partner countries to:
- Report fraud and irregularities
- Track cases and investigations
- Ensure transparency and accountability
Regulatory Framework
The project aligns with:
- Regulation (EU) No 883/2013 (governing OLAF investigations)
- Facility Agreement obligations on:
- Internal controls
- Reporting
- Cooperation with EU audits and investigations
Programme Structure
Project Type
- Twinning Light Project
Duration
- 8 months implementation
- 3 months reporting phase
Budget
- Up to EUR 250,000
Existing Challenges Addressed
Despite having a legal framework, Montenegro faces practical challenges such as:
- Lack of clear procedures for fraud case handling
- Weak coordination during OLAF on-the-spot checks
- Limited effectiveness in using the IMS system
- Gaps in operational implementation of anti-fraud measures
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Public administrations from EU Member States
- Mandated bodies acting on behalf of public administrations
Application Channel
- Must apply through National Contact Points (NCPs)
Key Requirement
- Applicants must follow the Twinning Manual guidelines
How It Works / What Selected Partners Will Do
Step 1: Assessment of Current System
- Analyse Montenegro’s AFCOS structure
- Identify operational gaps and weaknesses
Step 2: Develop Practical Tools
- Create guidelines for:
- Fraud detection
- Case handling
- Reporting procedures
Step 3: Strengthen Coordination Mechanisms
- Improve collaboration across institutions
- Support effective cooperation with OLAF
Step 4: Improve Reporting Systems
- Enhance use of IMS
- Establish clear reporting workflows
Step 5: Capacity Building
- Deliver training sessions
- Raise awareness among stakeholders
Step 6: Support Compliance Alignment
- Align systems with EU regulations and standards
- Ensure readiness for audits and investigations
Why This Initiative Matters
- Protects EU financial interests and public funds
- Strengthens transparency and accountability
- Builds trust in public institutions
- Supports Montenegro’s EU integration process
- Contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 16
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing theoretical solutions without practical tools
- Weak understanding of AFCOS and OLAF coordination
- Ignoring IMS system integration
- Lack of focus on capacity building and training
- عدم alignment with EU regulatory frameworks
Tips for a Strong Proposal
- Provide practical, implementable solutions
- Demonstrate experience in anti-fraud systems and EU funds management
- Emphasise inter-institutional coordination mechanisms
- Include detailed training and capacity-building plans
- Align clearly with EU regulations and Twinning standards
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the objective of this project?
To strengthen Montenegro’s AFCOS system and improve protection of EU financial interests.
2. What type of project is this?
It is a Twinning Light project under the IPA III programme.
3. What is the total budget?
Up to EUR 250,000.
4. Who can apply?
Public administrations and mandated bodies from EU Member States.
5. What is the project duration?
- 8 months implementation
- 3 months reporting
6. What systems will be improved?
- AFCOS coordination system
- Irregularity Management System (IMS)
- Reporting and procedural frameworks
7. Why is this important for Montenegro?
It ensures effective use of EU funds, strengthens governance, and supports EU accession efforts.
Conclusion
This European Commission initiative is a targeted effort to strengthen Montenegro’s anti-fraud infrastructure and institutional capacity. By focusing on practical tools, coordination, and compliance, the project ensures better protection of EU financial interests and improved governance standards.
Eligible public institutions from EU Member States have a strategic opportunity to contribute expertise and support Montenegro in building a robust, transparent, and effective anti-fraud system aligned with EU requirements.
For more information, visit European Commission.
